As NAU continues our major capital program to rebuild the campus, we have made a commitment to be a leader in sustainable design and operation of green buildings. Evidence of this may be found in the Applied Research and Development (ARD) and The W. A. Franke College of Business buildings (LEEDS Platinum and Gold, respectively).

A unique feature of this building is that it will be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified. In addition to lessening the impact on the environment, a sustainable building has significantly lower energy costs. With the help of our expert design team, we are building a facility that matches our mission, transforms the educational environment at NAU, and is unique among hospitality schools worldwide.

The HRM renovation will meet LEED standards by using and recycling materials, using low energy consumption and low impact materials, providing bike racks, and xeriscape landscaping. Additionally, more than 75% of building will receive natural light and optimize energy usage (the building will move into the modern systems using chilled water and no refrigerants).

There are benefits of sustainable design for the HRM program, the building occupants themselves, the community where the facility is built, the State of Arizona and the public. For example, sustainable design results in reduced operating expenditures for energy: By employing more energy efficient designs we will enjoy operating savings from reduced energy consumption (when compared to costs associated with conventional practices).

Reduced operation and maintenance costs: By using more durable low-maintenance materials and systems, facility operating costs will be reduced through savings in labor, waste handling, and streamlining of housekeeping and maintenance procedures. Personnel expenditure reductions: Healthy, comfortable work environments have been known to lead to reduced absenteeism and increased employee retention. There are potential improvements in performance/productivity.

Reduced costs for managing change: By designing structures and systems that are flexible and adaptable to other uses, costs of periodic reorganization and renovation are reduced.

Benefits to the Building Users Healthy, comfortable work environments: Indoor air quality and other human factor issues will be addressed to enhance employee comfort and productivity.

Benefits to the Communities where Facilities are Located Positive effect on surrounding community: By preserving ecosystems and minimizing impact, sustainable buildings enhance their communities. Proper location of buildings also can enhance sustainable community transportation and land use patterns. Reduced municipal operating expenditures: More sustainably designed buildings will mean that during construction and operation, waste is reduced, along with demands on landfills. There are also savings resulting from water treatment reduction.

Reduced infrastructure costs: More sustainably designed buildings mean that capital costs for expanding water supply, sewer systems and wastewater treatment plants can be avoided.

Benefits to the State of Arizona and the Public Reduced life cycle costs in state buildings: Investments in sustainable construction and operation will reduce life cycle cost and improve performance including, durability, energy performance, and environmental impact.

Economic development: More efficient buildings mean less money leaves the state for energy. Buildings requiring clean technologies may spur development of these industries within the state. Similarly, development of local environmentally preferable product markets will be facilitated in Arizona.

Environmental benefits: Environmental benefits include climate change stabilization; soil, air and water pollution prevention; preservation of forests and biodiversity.

In light of the tremendous impact new buildings may have on the environment and on the health and productivity of its occupants, NAU, The W. A. Franke College of Business, and HRM have decided it is responsible business to practice sustainable design and construction techniques for the near term and for the future.

define "green building" by establishing a common standard of measurement

promote integrated, whole-building design practices

recognize environmental leadership in the building industry

stimulate green competition

raise consumer awareness of green building benefits

transform the building market

LEED provides a complete framework for assessing building performance and meeting sustainability goals. Based on well-founded scientific standards, LEED emphasizes state of the art strategies for sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. LEED recognizes achievements and promotes expertise in green building through a comprehensive system offering project certification, professional accreditation, training and practical resources.